The bill, H.B. No. 4229, amends the Parks and Wildlife Code regarding the use of proceeds from the sale of saltwater fishing stamps. It changes the heading of Section 43.405 to "Disposition and Use of Stamp Fees" and modifies the language in subsection (b) to specify that the net receipts from stamp sales "may only" be spent for coastal fisheries management, rather than "shall" be spent. The bill outlines specific uses for these funds, including the repair and maintenance of saltwater fish hatcheries, restoration of fish habitats, development of angler access projects, and the purchase of licenses under a buyback program.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the amended provisions apply only to receipts collected from the sale of saltwater fishing stamps on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Receipts collected prior to this date will continue to be governed by the existing law. This legislative change aims to ensure that funds from saltwater fishing stamps are utilized effectively for the management and enhancement of coastal fisheries in Texas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 43.405 (Parks and Wildlife Code 43)